Guwahati, Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday held a significant meeting with an eleven-member delegation from Bhutan’s ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City Project at his office here, reiterating the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional cooperation and sustainable development. The cordial exchange of ideas underscored the enduring ties between Assam and the Kingdom of Bhutan, with both sides expressing enthusiasm for the project’s potential.
The Bhutanese delegation, comprising key members of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Core Working Group and officials from the Royal Bhutanese Consulate General, is currently on a visit to Assam and Meghalaya. Chief Minister Sarma, in his welcoming address, lauded their visit and emphasised the transformative potential of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project in driving regional growth and sustainable practices. He affirmed that the Government of Assam, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, stands ready to offer full support and assured the delegation of close collaboration from the state administration with both the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Core Working Group.
Chief Minister Sarma highlighted that the Gelephu project would serve as a crucial platform to deepen institutional collaboration and strengthen the existing people-to-people ties between Assam and Bhutan. He also pointed out the immense benefits the project could bring to the youth of both regions, unlocking opportunities in education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. To further explore synergies, the Chief Minister encouraged the delegation to visit key institutions in Assam, including higher education establishments and medical facilities. He also extended an invitation for them to utilise various state-run facilities as potential models or partners in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Recalling His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s previous visit to Assam, Chief Minister Sarma expressed a heartfelt desire to host the entire royal family in the future, symbolising the deepening bond between the two neighbours. He stressed the importance of continuous dialogue and collaboration, announcing plans for a broader, multi-sectoral meeting during the Core Working Group’s next visit. This future gathering, he added, would bring together a diverse array of stakeholders to enrich discussions and foster a holistic approach to development and partnership. The constructive meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and achieving common goals. Chief Minister Sarma was accompanied by Special Chief Secretary Syedain Abbasi, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister K K Dwivedi, Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University Nani Gopal Mahanta, and other senior officials. The Bhutanese delegation was led by Dasho Arun Kapur and included former Chief Justice of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Member of the National Council of Bhutan and MP Dasho Tashi Wangyal, along with other members of the Core Working Group of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. Also present were Consul General Jigme Thinlye Namgyal and Consul Phurpa Tshering from the Royal Bhutanese Consulate General.